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Reconciliation Day to mark the Centenary of the Union Buildings

03 Dec 2013

South Africans will commemorate the national Day of Reconciliation on 16 December 2013.

During these celebrations, it is incumbent on all South Africans to remember the sacrifices that millions made so that our country could be free and her citizens live in peace and prosperity.

Government recognises that together South Africans must build a nation that encourages dialogue, fosters social cohesion and celebrates its heritage.

“Let us unite and strengthen relations with fellow South Africans and build a prosperous country where we all live together in harmony. South Africans from all walks of life have the responsibility to respect and acknowledge the past, celebrate the present and build the future together”, said the Minister of Arts and Culture, Paul Mashatile.

The celebration of 2013 Reconciliation Day will coincide with South Africa marking the 100th centenary of one of the most iconic structures in Pretoria, the Union Buildings. Since 1994, the Union Buildings has been used as the official seat of the South African government and also houses the offices of The Presidency. All Presidents of the democratic South Africa have taken the oath of office in the rotunda of the Union Buildings.

“The Union Buildings is one of our national heritage sites; it is therefore mandatory that all South Africans join hands and celebrate the 100th anniversary of these historic buildings. Our rich liberation heritage must be used to draw visitors to South Africa and must be used to protect our heritage. ” said Mashatile.

The tallest statue of former President Nelson Mandela will also be unveiled during the celebrations and artworks will be updated in the Union Buildings. The statue will be a monument dedicated to the life of former President Nelson Mandela and his contribution to freedom and reconciliation in South Africa.